Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started Introduction

Setting up your Ledger hardware wallet marks the first step toward secure self-custody of your cryptocurrencies. By visiting Ledger.com/Start®, you are guided through a streamlined, best-in-class process—from unboxing and device initialization to installing the Ledger Live app and safeguarding your recovery phrase. This 500-word introduction ensures you complete every crucial step with confidence and maximum security.

1. Unboxing and Verifying Your Ledger Device

When your Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X arrives, inspect the packaging for tamper-evident seals. Genuine Ledger products ship in sealed boxes featuring unique holographic labels. If a seal appears broken or missing, do not proceed—contact Ledger support immediately. Inside, you’ll find:

  • Your Ledger hardware wallet
  • A USB-C cable (Nano X) or USB-A to USB-C cable (Nano S Plus)
  • Recovery phrase cards
  • Quick-start guide

Keep all components together until setup is complete. Your recovery cards are the only backup of your private keys—misplacing them puts your crypto at risk.

2. Navigate to Ledger.com/Start®

On a secure computer or mobile device, manually enter Ledger.com/Start® into your browser’s address bar. Avoid search results that could lead to fraudulent or phishing sites. The start page automatically detects your operating system and directs you to download the official Ledger Live app, the all-in-one interface for managing your device.

3. Download and Install Ledger Live

Ledger Live is a free, open-source application available for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. To install:

  1. Download the installer or mobile app via the start page.
  2. Launch and follow on-screen prompts, granting any required permissions.
  3. Verify the app’s authenticity by checking the PGP signature if desired (advanced users).

Ledger Live provides a unified dashboard for portfolio monitoring, transaction management, firmware updates, and more. Ensure you always run the latest version to receive critical security patches and new features.

4. Initialize Your Ledger Device

With Ledger Live open, connect your hardware wallet to your computer or mobile device via USB or Bluetooth (Nano X only). You’ll be prompted to choose between:

  • Set up as a new device – Generates a new recovery phrase.
  • Restore from recovery phrase – Recovers an existing wallet using your seed.

If you’re new to Ledger, select “Set up as a new device.” Choose a secure PIN (4–8 digits) directly on your device. Next, write down the 24-word recovery phrase exactly as it appears, in order, on the provided recovery cards. Store these cards separately in secure locations—never photograph or save your phrase digitally.

5. Install Cryptocurrency Apps

After initialization, Ledger Live lets you add apps for the coins and tokens you hold. In the “Manager” tab:

  1. Browse supported cryptocurrencies.
  2. Install the apps you need (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP).
  3. Open each app on your device when prompted.

These apps enable Ledger to generate and verify addresses, sign transactions, and display detailed information on your screen.

6. Send, Receive, and Manage Assets

With apps installed, go to the “Portfolio” or “Accounts” tab in Ledger Live to:

  • Add an account for each cryptocurrency.
  • Receive funds by sharing the on-device-verified address.
  • Send coins by confirming transaction details on your hardware wallet.

Transactions are only signed and broadcast after you physically approve them on the device, ensuring that no malware or remote attacker can move your assets without your consent.

7. Best Practices and Support

  • Firmware Updates: Frequently check the “Manager” tab for new firmware and apply promptly.
  • Official URLs Only: Bookmark Ledger.com/Start® and Ledger.com/Support® to avoid phishing.
  • Secure Backups: Store recovery cards offline, in multiple, geographically separated locations.
  • Passphrase Protection: For advanced users, enable the optional passphrase feature to create hidden wallets.

If you encounter any issues, visit Ledger.com/Support® for detailed guides, FAQs, and direct contact options.

Conclusion

By following the steps at Ledger.com/Start®, you ensure that your Ledger device is configured securely and correctly from day one. From verifying packaging and installing Ledger Live to initializing your wallet and managing assets, each stage reinforces your control over private keys and digital identity. Begin your journey to secure self-custody with Ledger—where safety meets simplicity.